Polaris Sportsman S User Manual (English)

Questions and Answers:

S
Sandra WoodsJul 26, 2025
What to do if my Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine turns over but fails to start?
- D
  Dylan ThomasJul 26, 2025
  If your Polaris Offroad Vehicle's engine turns over but doesn't start, several factors could be at play. First, ensure you have fuel by checking the fuel valve position or refueling if necessary. Inspect and clean or replace a clogged fuel valve or filter, and drain the fuel system if water is present. Verify the fuel valve is on and consider replacing old fuel with new. Check the spark plugs for fouling or defects, and ensure they're sparking. If the choke was used excessively, inspect and replace the spark plugs. Also, recharge the battery to 12.5 VDC if the voltage is low and replace the fuel filter if it is clogged. For issues like a crankcase filled with water or fuel, or mechanical failures, it's best to consult your Polaris dealer.
N
Nicholas RoblesJul 31, 2025
How to troubleshoot an engine that doesn’t turn over in a Polaris Sportsman S?
- J
  Jeffrey MclaughlinJul 31, 2025
  If your Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine doesn’t turn over, try the following: reset the tripped circuit breaker, recharge the battery to 12.5 VDC if the voltage is low, and check all battery and solenoid connections, tightening them if they are loose.
M
Michelle HartmanAug 15, 2025
Why is my Polaris Sportsman S engine backfiring?
- C
  Christopher AnthonyAug 15, 2025
  If your Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine backfires, it could be due to weak spark from the spark plugs (inspect, clean, and/or replace them), incorrect spark plug gap or heat range (set gap to specs or replace plugs), or old or non-recommended fuel (replace with new fuel). For issues like incorrectly installed spark plug wires, incorrect ignition timing, or mechanical failure, it's best to consult your Polaris dealer.
C
Christopher Thomas DVMAug 19, 2025
What causes a Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine to ping or knock?
- B
  Brian OrrAug 19, 2025
  If your Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine pings or knocks, it may be caused by poor quality or low octane fuel (replace with recommended fuel) or incorrect spark plug gap or heat range (set gap to specs or replace plugs). For incorrect ignition timing, it's best to consult your Polaris dealer.

Polaris Sportsman S Specifications

General

Brand	Polaris
Model	Sportsman S
Category	Offroad Vehicle
Language	English

Summary

WELCOME

Polaris Recreational Vehicles

Lists types of Polaris recreational vehicles.

Polaris Professional Series Workmobiles

Lists types of Polaris professional series workmobiles.

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS

Recording VIN and Key Numbers

Recording critical vehicle identification numbers for reference.

SAFETY

Safety Decals and Locations

Explains the importance and placement of safety decals on the ATV.

Operator Safety Fundamentals

Covers age restrictions, training, and knowing your vehicle for safe operation.

Signal Words and Symbols

Explains the meaning of safety alert symbols, warnings, cautions, and notes.

General Operating Safety Rules

Lists essential safety practices for ATV operation, including terrain and conditions.

Specific Operational Hazards

Details hazards related to instruction, age, passengers, terrain, and surfaces.

Riding Gear and Personal Safety

Emphasizes wearing appropriate gear and avoiding alcohol/drugs while operating.

Performance and Vehicle Condition Safety

Covers risks of excessive speed, stunts, and vehicle maintenance safety.

Terrain Navigation Safety

Advises caution on unfamiliar, rough, or slippery terrain.

Specific Maneuver Safety

Details safety for turning, climbing, descending hills, and reverse operation.

Vehicle Integrity and Modification Safety

Covers risks from improper tires, modifications, and operating a damaged vehicle.

CONTROLS

Engine Electrical Switches

Explains the function of engine stop, main, and override switches.

Throttle Lever and ETC

Describes the throttle lever operation and electronic throttle control (ETC).

Lighting and Braking Controls

Details operation of light switches, brake lever, and necessary checks.

Brake System Components

Guides on checking brake fluid level in the master cylinder.

Parking and Auxiliary Brakes

Details procedures for setting parking brake and function of auxiliary brake.

Fuel System Controls

Covers choke operation, fuel valve, fuel tank, and filter.

Transmission Gear Selector

Describes how to use the transmission gear selector for different ranges.

FEATURES

All Wheel Drive (AWD) System

Explains the operation and engagement of the AWD system.

Instrument Cluster

Overview of the instrument cluster and its components.

Rider Information Center

Details the functions and modes of the rider information center.

OPERATION

Fuel Safety and Break-In

Essential safety guidelines for handling gasoline and procedures for the initial engine break-in period.

Pre-Ride Inspection and Starting

Lists critical pre-ride checks and step-by-step instructions for starting the ATV engine.

Cargo Hauling and Driving Techniques

Guidelines for safely carrying cargo and basic driving procedures.

Safe Terrain and Maneuver Practices

Covers safe turning, slippery surfaces, hills, water, obstacles, and reverse operation.

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS

Emission Control Systems Overview

Details on noise, exhaust, and crankcase emission control systems.

MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION

Periodic Maintenance Schedule

Outlines the recommended maintenance schedule based on hours and miles.

Lubrication Guide

Provides a guide on recommended lubricants and their application intervals.

Engine Oil Service

Instructions for checking and changing engine oil and filter for all models.

Drivetrain Oil Service

Covers checking and changing transmission and gearcase oils for different models.

Engine Cooling System

Details on checking coolant level and radiator coolant level.

Brake System Maintenance

Recommended checks for brakes and toe alignment.

Wheel and Tire Service

Procedures for side panel removal, tire depth, wheel removal, and installation.

Filter Systems and Lights

Service for air filters, breather filters, and replacement/adjustment of lights.

Spark Plugs and Vehicle Immersion

Spark plug service and procedures for handling vehicle immersion.

PVT System and Battery Care

Explains PVT system operation, drying, and battery maintenance.

Cleaning and Storage

General advice for cleaning, storing, and transporting the ATV.

ADJUSTMENTS

Chassis Adjustments

Covers non-adjustable camber/caster, rear spring adjustment, and handlebar positioning.

Engine and Throttle Adjustments

Details carburetor idle RPM adjustment and throttle cable freeplay.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Drive Belt and Cover Issues

Common causes and solutions for drive belt and cover problems.

Engine Performance Problems

Troubleshooting for engine starting, running, backfiring, and power loss issues.

Engine Overheating Diagnosis

Diagnosing and resolving common causes of engine overheating.

SPECIFICATIONS

SPORTSMAN 400 Specifications

Technical specifications for the Sportsman 400 model.

SPORTSMAN 500 Specifications

Technical specifications for the Sportsman 500 model.

SPORTSMAN 600 Specifications

Technical specifications for the Sportsman 600 model.

SPORTSMAN 700 Specifications

Technical specifications for the Sportsman 700 model.

WARRANTY

Limited Warranty Terms

Details the terms and duration of the limited warranty.

Warranty Registration Process

Information on warranty registration requirements and procedures.

Warranty Coverage and Exclusions

Outlines what is covered and excluded under the warranty terms.

Obtaining Warranty Service

Guidance on how to get warranty service from an authorized dealer.

Exported Vehicles Warranty Policy

Explains warranty and service policies for vehicles sold or used outside the country of purchase.

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Polaris Sportsman 850

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Polaris Sportsman 400